From the time you are 10 weeks pregnant until term, most of your baby’s changes will be targeted towards their growth and maturity. Essentially, they are a miniature version of how they will be at birth - only much smaller of course. All of their organs have almost completely formed now and are being primed to support independent life when they are born close to 40 weeks.
The chances of your baby developing a physical deformity after week 10 of pregnancy are reduced. But, it is still important to be ultra careful throughout the rest of your pregnancy.
It could be hard to see the end in sight of your 1st trimester. The first is seen by many women to be the hardest of the 3 trimesters, simply because the symptoms of early pregnancy can be so draining. Some women feel they can relax a little from week 10, the likelihood of miscarrying is reducing and excitement starts to creep in. Is it too early to start buying baby things? Should we tell other people now? Will the baby be ok? These and a million other questions will are completely normal at 10 weeks pregnant.
You might need to excuse yourself from polite company around this time in your pregnancy. Flatus, wind, gas whatever you like to call it, will creep up on you at the least convenient times. Having more wind is a common but little discussed symptom of pregnancy. It isn’t helped by some foods, beans, green leafy vegetables, bran and high fibre cereals can all be main offenders.
You might find yourself becoming more superstitious than usual. Try to balance reality and science with a bit of healthy fun. Most women have their own favourite stories when it comes to sharing their pregnancy and childbirth experiences. Learn to filter what you don’t want to hear.
Dream on. Pregnancy is a time when dreams take on a whole new dimension. Dreams are just one way of filtering our subconscious thoughts and getting rid of unnecessary information gathered throughout the day.
You could start mentally organising your work commitments from around week 10. Your entitlements tomaternity leave how long you want to have off work and the practicalities of coping on one wage will occupy some of your thinking time.
You may be feeling a bit drab and flat just now. You’re still not obviously pregnant with a 10 week pregnant belly but are probably looking like you’re carrying some extra weight. Don’t deny yourself simple pleasures which make you feel good. A massage, hairdressing appointment, a shopping trip, can all rejuvenate and boost a flagging mood.
Do some experimenting with herbal teas in place of your usual caffeinated tea and coffee. They are generally healthier and a pleasant alternative.
Try to increase your milk and calcium intake this week. Your baby’s tooth buds are forming now so any foods high in this important nutrient will have a positive effect on your baby’s teeth. Avoid any infections at 10 weeks pregnant which may increase your temperature and the risk of problems with your baby’s tooth development.
Keep a supply of snacks on hand for those moments when you’re feeling dizzy. Because of the challenges in eating properly now, your blood sugar could be low at times.
A ten week foetus has all of the baby’s vital organs where they should be. For the remainder of the pregnancy, they will continue to mature and develop in preparation for extra-uterine life.
Try not to stand up too quickly if you’ve been sitting down for a while. Give your body time to adjust your blood pressure as you stand.
Written for Huggies by Jane Barry Midwife and Child Health Nurse on 29/04/20.
Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program. To reduce the risk of injury, never force or strain yourself during exercise. If you feel pain, stop and seek medical attention if necessary.
Your baby’s due date: August 16 - August 28, 2021
Baby’s star sign: Leo
Chinese year: Ox
Famous people born around your baby's birth date: